Right after losing a loved one or while dealing with addiction, family reunions tend to be pretty hard. Especially Christmas and New Year’s Eve, which are synonyms for peaceful times, filled with hope, good wishes, and quality family time.

This week, we revisit my challenging yet necessary conversation with Mike Warren about the B-side of holidays, the challenges some people must go through, how being surrounded by nothing but smiles makes them feel, and what we, who aren’t mourning or dealing with serious issues, can do to help them.

Mike is an Executive Coach at ATI and an active member of the Christian recovery group Celebrate Recovery. He brings our attention to what Christmas and New Year’s Eve represent to those dealing with addictions, the loss of a loved one, or even those just trying to avoid unhealthy foods.

Additionally, he shares some tips for practicing acceptance, serving others, and much more.

In this episode, you will learn:

• Why holidays are tough for many people (5:00)
• How to deal with family members that trigger us (9:30)
• Participating in every discussion is optional. Be mindful of your mental health (13:30)
• Why practicing gratitude is life-changing (21:40)
• Why we should stop glamourizing alcohol (26:20)

Resources

• Celebrate Recovery website
• Connect with Mike Warren on LinkedIn